president obama speaking earlier from the white house. w. bush esident george saying today that president mandela was one of the great forces for freedom and equality of our team. he bore his burdens with dignity and grace, and our world is better off because of his example. he will be missed, but his contributions will live on forever. joining us now on the telephone from are washington, former u.s. ambassador to south africa, don gibbs. he was ambassador to south africa from 2009 until earlier this year. ambassador gibbs, thanks very much for spending time with us. what can you describe as the relationship between nelson andela and the united states diplomatically? >> diplomatically and personally i think he has been an inspiration to all of us. i think he brought out the best in everyone who came into contact with him. i had the immense honor to be able to get to know him a little bit toward the end of his incredibly inspiring life. you can't help but be moved when you are in his presence. i think we should all take away from his incredib